In this brief guide to rock climbing, I will highlight all the key aspects that you should keep in mind before tackling the intense yet highly rewarding sport.
Read on if you want to know how to get started, how to advance, and what to bring while rock climbing.
How to Start Rock Climbing
1. Prepare The Necessary Equipment
Rock climbing requires a lot of equipment and tools for safety as well as efficiency. Moreover, you’ll probably find rock climbing gear quite expensive, which is why you don’t necessarily have to buy them if you’re just starting.
This is because plenty of shops and guide companies can lend them to you for a much lower price, averaging between $30 to $80 a day.
Some of the equipment is necessary while others are considered upgrades for advanced climbers.
Here’s a quick look at some of the essential and most popular pieces of rock climbing equipment:
- Belay Device: The first item you need to buy. This one is responsible for providing mechanical friction that doubles as a safety brake as a descending tool.
- Climbing rope: There are different types of climbing ropes. The ideal ones for rock climbing are half ropes and twin ropes.
- Harness: A harness is a major safety tool while rock climbing. Make sure that the harness you buy is compatible with your belay device and rope diameter.
- Carabiners: They’re steel rings that are designed to connect the ropes, belay devices, and other tools.
- Climbing Outfit: Make sure that you bring a climbing helmet as well as proper climbing boots.
- Climbing Cams: They fit into cracks and grooves of the rocks to provide protection and stability
- Chalk: Increases hand traction and absorbs sweat, which is a slipping hazard.
2. Start Indoors
You might be excited to jump directly into rock climbing if you’re itching for excitement and adventure. However, I strongly recommended that you start climbing in a local gym.
Of course, indoor climbing isn’t as existing or challenging as the real deal. However, it’ll give you a lot of room to learn the basics of climbing and build enough strength to hold on to real rocks.
Moreover, there are plenty of challenging indoor climbing courses that will teach you how to react to different situations so you’re not overwhelmed with the full heft of rock climbing all at once!
3. Hire a Rock Climbing Guide for Your First Outdoor Adventure
Now that you’re all set, it’s time to go on your first outdoor adventure! A highly recommended tip here is to find a good rock climbing guide to help you through your first few times. Here are some of the benefits and advantages of hiring the right rock climbing tour:
- They’re knowledgeable and qualified professionals who’ll walk you through the steps of the most suitable technique for you
- They’re well accustomed to the area and know all the safe parts to practice the sport
- Some guide companies allow you to rent the gear, saving you the extra costs and the hassle of buying the one with limited knowledge
- They allow you to focus more on enjoying your time and experience, so you can see if the activity itself is a good fit for you
- Most guide companies go in large groups of 8 to 12 people, which allows you to claim the top ropes easily without waiting.
How to Progress in Rock Climbing
After a few times climbing, you might want to take your rock climbing skills to the next level. Here are top tips to help you with that:
- Practice indoor climbing to improve your climbing technique in a nearby gym when you don’t have time to go rock climbing
- Go rock climbing more often to gain more experience and learn to visualize a climbing plan quicker
- Consider CrossFit and weightlifting training that increases your body strength while climbing
- Strengthen your grip because, unlike ice climbing, you use your hands more often while rock climbing. Also, don’t forget to work on your grip ambidexterity
- Learn more about rock climbing equipment and upgrade your gear
Rock Climbing Techniques
Unlike ice climbing, there aren’t many climbing techniques when it comes to rock climbing. The most popular styles of climbing are static and dynamic. Let’s check them out.
Static Rock Climbing
The static rock climbing style depends on moving carefully and slowly while climbing. In this technique, you hold on and lock off while carefully planning your next move. This one is ideal for steep rock climbing for the fear of falling off.
Dynamic Rock Climbing
Dynamic rock involves a lot of fluidity and swing to the climbing motion. This type of climbing is very uncommon because it’s quite risky, especially for beginners. That’s why it’s more exclusive to indoor climbing rather than actual rock climbing.
Is Rock Climbing a Safe Sport?
If you’re concerned about your safety while practicing rock climbing, you’ll be delighted to know that rock climbing is generally regarded as one of the safest outdoor sports if you do it right.
Unlike ice climbing, rocks are often easier to climb and provide much better traction. The lighter gear makes it easier to move around and avoid accidents. Moreover, fewer natural hazards are attributed to rock climbing than ice climbing.
Of course, there have been some accidents over the years, but the numbers aren’t statistically alarming.
Most injuries sustained during rock climbing are minor ones and you’re mostly safe if you’re practicing it under the guidance of a professional.
Top Rock Climbing Spots in North America
Lucky for you, there are plenty of mountains and parks across North America where you can enjoy the sport. Here are my top 5 spots!
- Red Rock Formation in Utah, U.S.A
- Yosemite National Park in California, U.S.A
- Squamish Mt. Tantalus in British Columbia, Canada
- Canmore in Alberta, Canada
- Shawangunks (The Gunks) in New York, U.S.A
Wrap Up
With that said, you now have a better idea about rock climbing, how to start it, the main equipment to bring along, and multiple tips to progress in it.
As you can see, there are plenty of spots out there to go rock climbing. Remember to find a good rock climbing guide and a partner to make the most out of this exhilarating experience!